You've trained for months. You've crossed the finish line. Now what?
The race might only take a few hours, but the memories don’t have to.
With the Lakes Entrance Marathon this weekend and Spartans descending on the region next month, now is the perfect time to discover why so many event-goers arrive for race day and end up extending their stay.
Nestled between the Gippsland Lakes and Ninety Mile Beach, Lakes Entrance offers the rare combination of world-class natural beauty, great food, memorable experiences and easy access to the best of East Gippsland.
So once you’ve crossed the finish line, take a breath, kick off the runners and start exploring. From waterfront dining and lake cruises to koalas, caves, rail trails, saunas, and hot springs, there’s plenty waiting beyond the course.
Read more: Lakes Entrance 4-Day Itinerary
Time to Refuel
Looking to refuel? You’re in the right place. Lakes Entrance serves up everything from fresh-caught seafood and waterfront cafés to vibrant bars and family-friendly restaurants, all with that laid-back coastal atmosphere the town is known for.
Start the day with a coffee and waterfront views at Bones or Albert & Co, where great coffee, generous breakfasts and front-row seats to the water make it easy to settle in and stay awhile.
If you’re after a long lunch, a sunset drink or dinner overlooking the water, there are plenty of options dotted around the Esplanade and Marine Parade.
When hunger strikes, take your pick from fresh local seafood, classic pub fare and flavours from around the world.
Craving tacos and margaritas? Head to La Catrina for colourful Mexican dishes and a lively atmosphere. For seafood that’s travelled only metres from boat to plate, book a table at Off The Wharf, where local catches take centre stage overlooking the water by Bullock Island. If you’re lucky you might even spot a dolphin while you eat.
And no visit to Lakes Entrance is complete without embracing a true local tradition: fish and chips by the water. Grab a takeaway near the iconic footbridge, find a spot overlooking the boats and watch the pelicans glide by as you tuck into some of the freshest seafood in Victoria. It’s simple, delicious and quintessentially Lakes Entrance.
Whether you’re fuelling up after a day on the water, celebrating a marathon finish or simply soaking up the coastal holiday vibes, Lakes Entrance delivers plenty of reasons to stay for just one more meal.
Post-Race Recovery
You’ve conquered the course, now it’s time to reward yourself.
For post-race recovery, you’ve certainly earned a little indulgence. Ease tired legs in the wood-fired saunas at Koho Sauna in Lakes Entrance, or make the short trip to Metung Hot Springs for geothermal bathing, wellness experiences and sweeping views across Bancroft Bay. It’s the perfect way to reward yourself after crossing the finish line.
If your event wasn’t challenging enough, Lakes Entrance has plenty of opportunities to keep moving. Join the welcoming local community at Lakes Entrance Parkrun every Saturday morning, where visitors are always encouraged to walk, jog, run or volunteer. It’s a great way to explore the foreshore, meet locals and add another few kilometres to the legs.
For those keen to stick to their training routine, you’ll find several local gyms, fitness centres and group exercise classes throughout the town, offering everything from strength training and functional fitness to yoga and pilates.
The expansive Lakes Entrance foreshore is also ideal for active recovery, with scenic walking paths, outdoor exercise equipment and kilometres of waterfront trails perfect for a gentle shake-out session.
Of course, one of the best things about Lakes Entrance is that exercise never really feels like exercise. Take a sunrise walk along Ninety Mile Beach, cycle sections of the nearby East Gippsland Rail Trail, paddle the sheltered waters of the Gippsland Lakes with Venture Out or simply stretch your legs on a stroll across the iconic footbridge.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or embracing a slower pace after race day, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active while soaking up everything this beautiful coastal destination has to offer.
If you’ve got an extra day to explore, you’ll quickly discover that Lakes Entrance is the perfect base for experiencing some of East Gippsland’s best attractions.
Start close to town with a walk across the iconic footbridge to Ninety Mile Beach, take in the views from Jemmys Point Lookout, jump on a Gippsland Lakes cruise, or hire a kayak or paddleboard and get out on the water. It’s also worth slowing down along the waterfront to watch the fishing fleet come and go and soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Read more: 8 Best Cruises in Lakes Entrance
A short drive away, wander the scenic boardwalks of Metung, stop for a famous Nicho Pie in Nicholson, or explore the gardens, heritage homestead and lake views at Nyerimilang Heritage Park.
For those keen to venture further afield, explore the spectacular landscapes of Snowy River Country, marvel at the underground wonders of Buchan Caves, catch a show at the Forge Theatre in Bairnsdale, or ride a section of the East Gippsland Rail Trail.
Whether you’re chasing nature, culture, great food or a few extra adventures after race day, you’ll find plenty of reasons to turn a weekend in Lakes Entrance into a longer East Gippsland getaway.
Adventures For Kids
Travelling with family? You’ll find plenty to keep little adventurers entertained both in Lakes Entrance and beyond. Kids can spend hours building sandcastles on Ninety Mile Beach, exploring the foreshore playgrounds, challenging the family to a round of mini golf, browsing the fascinating displays at the Shell Museum on the Esplanade, or keeping an eye out for the greedy pelicans that gather along the waterfront.
If you’re exploring further afield, there are plenty of family-friendly stops worth adding to the itinerary. In Metung, the waterfront splash park is a favourite with younger children, particularly on warm days, while nearby foreshore reserves provide plenty of room to run, play and enjoy a picnic by the water.
Over in Bairnsdale, families shouldn’t miss the all-abilities playground in town. It features equipment designed for children of all ages and abilities, making it one of the region’s most loved family attractions. It’s the perfect spot to burn off some energy before grabbing lunch in town or strolling along the nearby riverfront.
Nearby Howitt Park is also home to the town’s iconic giant yellow slide. It’s big. It’s impossible to miss, and everyone loves it.
Animal lovers also won’t want to miss a visit to nearby Raymond Island, where more than 200 resident koalas can often be spotted snoozing in the gum trees along the Koala Trail. It’s one of the easiest places in Victoria to see koalas in the wild and a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
To round out the perfect East Gippsland family getaway, head east to Marlo and settle in for sunset from the deck of the Marlo Hotel. Overlooking the meeting point of the Snowy River and the ocean, it’s the kind of view that has families lingering a little longer and planning their next East Gippsland adventure before this one is even over.
You're Right, Staying a Week is Better
Kayak the Mallacoota flats, where crystal-clear waterways, vocal birdlife and the pristine fishery make for an unforgettable day on the water. If the mountains are calling, head to Omeo to cast a line on a guided fishing charter, visit the Art Gallery in Swifts Creek and discover the dramatic landscapes of the Victorian High Country on one of many gorgeous walks in the area.
Read more: Swifts Creek and Surrounds Walks & Rides
Food and drink lovers are spoiled for choice, with local wineries, breweries and paddock-to-plate experiences dotted throughout the region. Pull up a seat at Sailor’s Grave for a uniquely East Gippsland craft beer. If you’re feeling adventurous you can hire a SUP and stop for lunch beside the vines at Wyanga Park Winery – or arrive by boat with a local cruise operator. Along the way, you’ll find farm gates, local produce and memorable country hospitality in every direction.
Foodies can’t miss the dining experience offered by the East Handy Store in Bairnsdale and the seafood at Sodafish is what Lakes Entrance is all about.
Nature lovers can chase hidden waterfalls, wander rainforest tracks and discover some of Victoria’s most spectacular scenery around Orbost and Snowy River Country. It’s the kind of place where a quick detour often becomes the highlight of the trip.
Venture inland toward Bairnsdale to admire the stunning St Mary’s Church murals, take in the sweeping farmland views around Lindenow, and make a stop in Bruthen for honey tasting at Tambo Valley Honey. And while you’re there, do yourself a favour and grab one of the famous vanilla slices from Bruthen Bakery. Locals have been singing their praises for years, and one bite will tell you why.
Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventure, incredible local flavours, small-town charm or a few extra days to slow down and explore, East Gippsland rewards those who venture beyond the obvious.
Where to Stay?
Whether you’re looking for absolute waterfront accommodation, family holiday parks, luxury
glamping, tiny homes, or resorts overlooking the Gippsland Lakes, Lakes Entrance has accommodation options for every style of traveller.
Make a weekend of it and experience why East Gippsland is one of Australia’s most loved coastal escape destinations.
Check out all your options at our accommodation page.
Drop into the Lakes Entrance Visitor Information Centre or check out our itineraries page for more ideas on where to stay, eat, explore and unwind.
And if you’re chasing a reason to come and stay…check out our events calendar – there’s always something exciting on the horizon.
See you soon!
